Large data transfers simultaneously decrease overall throughput and increase the average response time. Here are some suggestions to improve performance during these transfers:
Perform large transfers during off-hour periods, if possible.
Limit the number of concurrent queries during large transfers.
Do not run queries and insertions concurrently during large transfers.
Use stored procedures to reduce total traffic.
Use row buffering to move large batches through the network.
If large transfers are common, consider installing better network hardware that is suitable for such transfers. For example:
Token ring–responds better during heavy utilization periods than ethernet hardware.
Fiber optic–provides very high bandwidth, but is usually too expensive to use throughout the entire network.
Separate network–can be used to handle network traffic between the highest volume workstations and the server.